Delicious Lentil Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

This warm and hearty lentil soup is more than just a meal; it’s a big hug in a bowl. Imagine cozying up on a chilly evening with the aroma of spices wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this delightful dish. It’s the kind of experience that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

Picture yourself spooning into this rich and flavorful bowl of goodness while the world outside is cold and blustery. You can’t help but smile as you take that first sip—each mouthful bursting with earthy flavors and vibrant colors. This is not just any lentil soup; it’s a delightful journey through your taste buds that brings back memories of family gatherings or simply enjoying a quiet night in.

My friends still rave about the time I made this for our movie night—it was gone before the opening credits finished rolling!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Green Lentils: These hold their shape well during cooking; choose high-quality ones for the best texture.
• Onion: A classic base; use yellow onions for sweetness that pairs beautifully with spices.
• Carrots: Diced carrots add sweetness and color; opt for fresh ones for maximum flavor.
• Celery: Provides crunch and depth; look for crisp stalks without blemishes.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic elevates the dish’s aroma; use plenty for that punchy flavor.
• Canned Tomatoes: Adds acidity and richness; diced tomatoes work best in this recipe.
• Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while enhancing flavor.
• Spices (Cumin, Paprika): These spices bring warmth and complexity; adjust according to your taste preference.
• Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Cilantro): Chopped herbs brighten up the dish at serving time; always use fresh for best results.
• Lemon Juice: A splash at the end brightens flavors beautifully without overwhelming them.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

**Prep Your Veggies**: Start by dicing your onion, carrots, and celery into small pieces. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.

**Sauté Aromatics**: In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add the chopped onion. Sauté until translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes—then toss in garlic.

**Add Veggies**: Stir in diced carrots and celery. Cook until they soften slightly—around 3-4 minutes—and release their wonderful aromas.

**Incorporate Lentils & Tomatoes**: Stir in rinsed green lentils along with canned tomatoes. Mix well to combine everything before adding vegetable broth.

**Simmer Away**: Bring your mixture to a boil then reduce heat. Cover partially and let simmer gently for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy.

**Finish with Flavor**: After cooking, stir in lemon juice and chopped herbs before serving. Taste test one last time—you may want to adjust seasoning!

And there you have it! Your cozy bowl of lentil soup is ready to be devoured!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic before adding lentils and broth to maximize flavor. This method ensures that your soup has an aromatic base, enhancing every spoonful.

Add Your TouchDiscover a delicious lentil soup recipe that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion.

Feel free to swap lentils for chickpeas or add spinach for extra nutrition. Spice it up with cumin or curry powder to give your soup a unique twist that reflects your taste.

Storing & ReheatingDiscover a delicious lentil soup recipe that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion.

Store leftover lentil soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding water or broth as needed to restore creaminess.

Sometimes, my friends request lentil soup when they’re feeling under the weather; it feels good knowing I can offer them comfort with just one pot.

FAQDiscover a delicious lentil soup recipe that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion.

What are the best lentils for soup?

Brown and green lentils hold their shape well and create a hearty texture in soups.

Can I freeze lentil soup?

Yes, freezing is perfect! Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

How long does lentil soup last in the fridge?

Properly stored, lentil soup lasts about five days in the refrigerator without losing its flavor.

Print

Cozy Up with Hearty Lentil Soup

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Warm your soul with this hearty lentil soup, brimming with flavors and perfect for chilly evenings. A simple, comforting dish that everyone will love!

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup green lentils
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• cumin
• paprika
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
• Lemon juice to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Dice onion, carrots, and celery into small pieces.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the onion in olive oil until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in diced carrots and celery; sauté until softened (around 3-4 minutes).
4. Add rinsed lentils and canned tomatoes; mix well before pouring in vegetable broth.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.
6. Stir in lemon juice and chopped fresh herbs before serving.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Various

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg